Is There a Test for Lyme Disease?

Introduction: Why Lyme Disease Needs a Functional Medicine Lens

Lyme disease is more than just a tick bite—it’s often a misunderstood, underdiagnosed chronic illness. At Patients Medical in New York City, we approach Lyme disease with an integrative, whole-body strategy, uncovering hidden infections, co-infections, and immune dysfunction that traditional testing may miss.
We treat the root cause—not just the rash.

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. While some people recover quickly, others develop chronic symptoms that linger for months or years—especially when misdiagnosed or left untreated.

Is There a Reliable Test for Lyme Disease?

Yes—but not all tests are created equal. The standard CDC-recommended two-tier test (ELISA and Western Blot) has limitations, especially in the early or chronic stages of Lyme. That’s why we go beyond basic lab work.

Common Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Lyme can mimic many other conditions, which makes diagnosis tricky. Common signs include:

Advanced Lyme Disease Testing We Offer

At Patients Medical, we use cutting-edge diagnostics to uncover the full picture of your health:

Conventional Lyme Tests: ELISA, Western Blot (IgM & IgG)

Specialty Labs: IGeneX, Vibrant Wellness, Galaxy Diagnostics

PCR Testing: Detects Borrelia DNA directly

Co-Infection Panels: Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, Mycoplasma, Anaplasma

Cunningham Panel: For autoimmune-triggered neuropsychiatric symptoms

CD57+ NK Cell Count: Assesses chronic Lyme-related immune dysfunction

Inflammatory Markers: CRP, cytokines, homocysteine

Toxin Load: Heavy metals, mold exposure

Our Integrative Lyme Disease Treatment Protocol

Lyme disease is more than just a bacterial infection—it’s an immune, neurological, and metabolic issue. That’s why we take a multi-system approach:

Nutritional & Detox Support

  • Paleo, AIP, or low-histamine diets
  • Anti-candida or SIBO protocols
  • Liver and kidney detox support
  • Nutrient repletion (zinc, magnesium, B-vitamins, omega-3s)

 

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • Vitamin C, glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid
  • Ozone therapy
  • Phosphatidylcholine and Myers’ Cocktail
  • Silver and herbal IV infusions

Herbal Antimicrobials

  • Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa)
  • Japanese knotweed
  • Cryptolepis
  • Artemisinin
  • Andrographis
  • Sida acuta

 

Gut & Immune Repair

  • Probiotics and prebiotics
  • L-glutamine, marshmallow root, and licorice
  • Enzymes and bile support

Hormone & Adrenal Rebalancing

  • Adrenal fatigue with adaptogens and cortisol support
  • Thyroid optimization (including natural desiccated thyroid if needed)
  • Sex hormone balancing with bioidenticals when necessary

 

Neurological & Emotional Support

  • Neurofeedback
  • BEMER and PEMF therapy
  • Acupuncture and craniosacral therapy
  • Trauma-informed counseling and EFT

Real Case Study: Alex’s Healing from Hidden Lyme

Alex, 38, came to us after 2 years of misdiagnosed fatigue, anxiety, and joint pain. Basic labs were “normal.” After advanced testing, we found:

  • Positive IGeneX Lyme panel
  • Co-infection with Babesia
  • Gut dysbiosis and low mitochondrial function
  • Mercury toxicity

We initiated a 5-month integrative protocol with:

  • Herbal antimicrobials
  • IV glutathione and detox
  • Anti-inflammatory diet
  • Adrenal support and mitochondrial nutrients

Today, Alex reports 90% symptom resolution and is back to running marathons—medication-free.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 Unfortunately, no. Lyme testing is complex. That’s why clinical evaluation is just as critical as advanced labs.

 Yes. Chronic Lyme often shows up on advanced tests even years after infection.

 You may have seronegative Lyme, co-infections, or a related stealth infection. We go deeper.

 Very. Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, and others are often transmitted in the same tick bite.

 Our plans combine natural therapies, detox, herbal antimicrobials, and physician-monitored care.

 In some cases, yes—but we offer alternative, holistic antimicrobial options for many patients.

 Each case is different, but many patients begin improving within 2–3 months.

 Acute Lyme can often be cured. Chronic Lyme can be managed or put into remission with proper care.

 We are out-of-network but provide superbills. Lab testing may be partially reimbursed.

 Yes. We serve Lyme patients from all over the country via virtual consultations.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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